The Defense Headquarters has confirmed that a naval personnel deployed at FOB Dansadua for Operation FANSAN YAMMA, in questionable circumstances, opened fire sporadically, killing one of his colleagues.

The Director, Defense Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, in a statement on Friday, said the incident happened on Friday at about 0312hrs in the Dansadau area of Katsina State.

Buba said the personnel identified as Leading Seaman Akila A, has been arrested, disarmed and detained, while investigation into the incident had commenced.

According to him, after investigation, the case will be escalated to a standing court martial, which is usually setup to address such misdemeanors among troops.

“Meanwhile, the administrative procedure for notifying the family of the deceased is ongoing.

“It is for this reason his name is not yet released to the public. Nevertheless, the name will be released in due course.

“Accordingly, we urge the media to exercise caution in reporting in order not to further demoralise the family of the deceased,” he said.